Is it worth getting a camera repaired?

Like other repairers, I'm often asked "Is it worth getting my camera repaired?". This is a question only you can answer as the camera owner.

Here are some of the many things to take into account
when deciding to spend the money having a camera repaired. I have listed them
in descending order of likely importance.

If you rely on using your Retina or Retinette camera
for everyday picture taking, you are familiar with the camera controls, and
you enjoy using it because the results are good, then having the camera
repaired instead of buying another may be the right choice for you. (Buying
another camera of the same type may also suit you, but with old cameras you
are likely to find it will need servicing too before too long.)

If the camera has been passed down to you from another
family member, or it has other sentimental value, and you have used, or intend
to use it, then spending the money to have it repaired may be the right thing
for you to do.

If you have aquired this interesting old camera, and
would like to explore the possibilities of using it to take photos, then
having it repaired may be the right thing for you to do.

If you enjoy using fine machinery, and gain pleasure
from knowing everything clicks and whirs as it should, then spending the money
to have the camera repaired may be right for you.

If you just like to know that all the cameras in the
display cabinet could be used to take pictures, ' If you wanted to ', then
having the camera repaired could be the right thing for you.

When is it unlikely to be worth getting a camera
repaired?

It is unlikely that you would recover the cost of
having a camera repaired if you are planning on having it repaired so that you
can then sell the camera in working condition. Dead, or marginally functional
cameras fetch a significant percentage of the price that a fully working
example would.

Having your dad's old camera fixed because one of your
kids needs a 35mm camera for a school photography course is unlikely to win
you any friends. Do your kids a favour, ask their tutor what camera they
recommend, and spend what money you need to in order buy it.